Science often results in researchers who are filled with wonder and awe. For a person of faith, their discoveries tend to increase that faith.
Summary
‘The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein’ (Psalm 111:2) is inscribed above the door of the main University of Cambridge Physics research laboratory. This verse has inspired generations of people who pursue wisdom using the tools of science. In fact, science could be described as ‘the love of wisdom of natural things’. For example, astronomer and author Jennifer Wiseman finds that learning about star formation and the presence of earth-like planets in other solar systems ‘bring joy, and bring praise to God.’
Discussion questions
- What is your reaction to the story of the Bible verse on the Cavendish Lab buildings?
- What do you think of the definition of science as the love of wisdom of natural things?
- What have you learned about or experienced of the natural world recently that helped you to worship?
- Are there any scientists or scientifically minded people in your church who you can encourage in their exploration of creation?
Don’t miss our live podcast recordings on Fri 16th August!
12.30-1.30pm BST with David Hutchings, who co-wrote a book on wisdom in science with Prof Tom McLeish (featured below)
7.30-8.30pm BST with astronomer Dr Jennifer Wiseman (featured below)
Psalm 111 (NRSV, Year B, Sunday 18th August, continuous)
Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation. Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them. Full of honour and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever. He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds; the Lord is gracious and merciful. He provides food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant. He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations. The works of his hands are faithful and just; all his precepts are trustworthy. They are established forever and ever, to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness. He sent redemption to his people; he has commanded his covenant forever. Holy and awesome is his name. The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all those who practice it have a good understanding. His praise endures forever
See also Ephesians 5:15-20 and 1 Kings 2:10-12; 3:3-14.
Article
Anyone who enters the Cambridge University physics research building, called the Cavendish Laboratory, walks under Psalm 111:2, ‘The works of the Lord are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein.’ When the original Cavendish lab was built in 1851 these words were inscribed in Latin on its massive wooden doors – almost certainly at the request of the first Professor of Physics, James Clark Maxwell. When the new purpose-built lab was built in 1973 a Christian PhD student asked if the verse could be included in English. To the surprise of his supervisor, who assumed the Policy Committee would say no, his request was granted. Now that an even newer lab has been built, it seems – from a couple of conversations that I have had with people involved – that this ancient and influential text will be recognised in some way in the new home of Cambridge physics.